Why Employers Ask to Tell You About Yourself in a Job Interview

Have you ever found yourself in a job interview, asked the question, ldquo;Can you tell me about yourself?rdquo; and wondered why the interviewer is asking this seemingly redundant question? Isn't the answer already stated on your CV, cover letter, and application form? While your resume does provide an overview of your professional background, your true uniqueness lies in how you present yourself beyond these typical descriptions. Employers want to see a more holistic view of who you are and discover your true potential through your storytelling skills.

Why Go Beyond the Resume?

During a job interview, the question, ldquo;Can you tell me about yourself?rdquo; allows interviewers to gauge more than just your professional achievements. They are seeking to learn what you are like beyond your professional persona. ldquo;Who are you outside the classroom and the campus?rdquo; This question provides an opportunity to showcase your personal qualities, interests, and talents that are not typically highlighted on your resume.

For example, consider a scenario where a candidate is majoring in Chemistry and aims to research cancers affecting children. While their academic records might detail their commitment to the field, they may have additional talents and interests that set them apart. Perhaps, they have written funny stories for children about making and maintaining friendships in school that are published in local elementary school publications. Or, they might be part of a band, playing the guitar for elementary school parties and celebrations, as well as fundraising events at children's hospitals. These activities show a dedication to children and a well-rounded approach to life, making them even more interesting and versatile to the interviewer.

Real-World Examples

To truly understand the importance of this question, let's consider a real-world example. I recently worked on a project for an association of highly accomplished technical professionals who were facing significant member recruitment challenges. Despite their impressive technical qualifications, it was difficult toldquo;humanizerdquo; them and provide insight into their unique personalities. What was one unexpected hobby activity or interest that might surprise or fascinate potential candidates.

After an in-depth analysis, I identified several members with diverse and surprising interests:

An amateur professional chef An amateur astronomer A sky diver A painter A singer/songwriter An equestrian A hip-hop artist A roller-derby participant

These personal interests provide a more complete picture of who each member is, beyond just their technical expertise. They reveal a blend of professional prowess and personal hobbies, adding depth and personality to the individuals.

Insight into Your Off-Duty Personality

These personal activities help in building a more relatable profile and potential candidates. They give interviewers insight intowho you are ldquo;off the CV.rdquo; Showing your off-duty interests, skills, and passions can make you more memorable and interesting to the interviewer. It demonstrates that you are a well-rounded individual, capable of balancing both professional and personal pursuits.

It is important to shine in these aspects and provide a clear picture of who you are beyond just your professional accomplishments. You are a blend of your professional and personal life, and sharing these insights can help you stand out during an interview.